Tips for Talking to Kids About Difficult Topics and Navigating the News

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By Ricia Weiner, PhD, NCSP, LPC Director of Student Support Services, Whittle School & Studios, DC Campus

Here are a few tips for talking with students about subjects that can cause anxiety for both kids and adults. As with any tough subject, especially those that seem omnipresent given our access to 24-hour news coverage, kids will be affected. As we all know, kids always have their ears open even when we think they aren’t paying attention. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Kids get more anxious when they are not given space to talk about what’s on their mind. As a parent, you can help your child by being a great listener.  

  • Stick to “kid-appropriate” truth. You know your child best. Give factual, but age-appropriate information. Absent of factual information kids will sometimes make up “facts” to fill in the blanks leading to misinformation and myths.

  • It is OK to say “I don’t know.” If you are unsure about the answer to a question you can let your child know you will get back to them when you get more information.

  • Remember to keep your own emotions in check when talking to your child. You serve as a great model for your child for so many things and how you handle stress and anxiety is no different. Stay matter-of-fact about the topic.

  • Focus on prevention and reassurance. Reminders about how we can keep ourselves safe and healthy are great at any time.  

  • Be open to discussions, but don’t prompt or dwell. Take your cue from your child to start a conversation about a tough topic. However, as the facilitator of the conversation be mindful of when the conversation has turned from being constructive to perseverative. Don’t be afraid to change the focus of a conversation.

  • Taking a break from news feeds can help lessen stress and anxiousness. Never hesitate to help your child unplug for a while.

  • Keeping up with routines as much as possible for kids will provide normalcy and comfort.


If you notice your child has a heightened sense of stress and anxiousness regarding the topic, please reach out to Student Support Services (or your school’s counselor). We are here to back you up with additional tips, advice, and referrals to fit your unique situation.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 
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Dr. Ricia Weiner is the Director of Student Support Services at Whittle School & Studios, DC Campus, where she provides social emotional support and education to students, faculty, and families.

 
Margot Allen